I know virtually NOTHING about how this technology works or is created.But I will wager my other thumb that it would cost you more than $99 in man hours alone (at minimum wage) to make your own.Then factor in the materials etc.

If you are into gaming, you can't truly believe that $99 is a "hefty" price tag.

Agreed. When I first joined this site almost 10 years ago I was a sophomore in highschool just before my first job and I managed to scrounge up the money for the XIM3 at the time. Some of the best money I ever saved and spent! :) Sometimes you just have to make opportunities yourself.